Jeweller beaten to death

A jewellery shop owner was beaten to death in what police believe may have been a bungled robbery.

Anthony Clarke was battered over the head and detectives believe he may have been targeted by a gang trying to get the key to his shop.

Mr Clarke, who was known as Tony, ran jewellers Chic II in Grenville Street, off Hatton Garden.

He was found collapsed with head injuries at a friend's address in New North Road, Redbridge, early on Sunday.

Mr Clarke, who was 44 and married, was taken to hospital but died on Monday at 5pm.

Detectives believe a gang broke into the flat and assaulted him. One theory is that the attackers were trying to get the key to his shop, although he was not carrying it.

Mr Clarke, who lived at Beehive Lane, Ilford, may have been followed to the flat.

Detective Inspector Kevin Fitzgerald said: "We are keeping an open mind. However, we are looking into the possibility that the incident may be connected to his business and there could be a robbery motive.

"This was a frenzied and a sustained attack. He was hit numerous times. We are looking at recent customers at his shop and the lifestyle that he had."

A 40-year-old man has been arrested and released on police bail in connection with the murder.